The Roddy Bale residence takes advantage of the views from its long,
thin, residential site. The new structure, located on approximately
the same part of the site as the dilapidated 1950's ranch style house
it replaced, looks towards phantom lake to the south and uphill through
a series of large, old trees to the north. By straddling the property,
the house forms a wall between the two moods, or outdoor rooms of the
site.

The main floor pairs a large open plan living/dining/kitchen space
with a service core that runs along the north side and contains a library,
bathroom, stair, and storage. The glazed southern elevation lets in
light and air from the lake while a narrow slot of windows in the north
wall maintains the contained feeling of the woods, but allows a view
straight through the house.

The structure is primarily steel with exposed
wood decking on the ceilings, but upstairs, masonite flooring with colorful
inset rubber shapes lends a more lighthearted feel.

The owners spend
much of their time outdoors in the garden. The main entry is through
an open exterior workspace that accommodates the need for plant preparation
and serves as an outdoor entertaining space. The concrete sink and countertops
are functional, simple, and complement the clean lines of the house.